“Opinion | Jan Aushadhi Kendras And India’s Medical Revolution Under PM Modi”, News 18, 2026
“In the vast and diverse landscape of India, where over 1.4 billion people navigate the complexities of daily life, access to affordable healthcare has long been a cornerstone of national development. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has witnessed a profound transformation in its medical sector, often dubbed a “medical revolution.” At the heart of this revolution lies the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP), which has popularised Jan Aushadhi Kendras (JAKs), which are outlets providing high-quality generic medicines at drastically reduced prices. These Kendras symbolize a shift towards equitable healthcare, ensuring that even the most vulnerable sections of society can afford essential treatments without plunging into poverty. Launched in its revitalised form in 2015, the PMBJP has grown exponentially, aligning with Modi’s vision of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas”.
By 2026, over 18,000 Jan Aushadhi Kendras are operational across the country, serving over 15 lakh customers daily and generating savings exceeding Rs 40,000 crore for citizens. These centres offer over 2400 medicines and 315 surgical, medical consumables and devices, priced anywhere between 50 per cent to 90 per cent cheaper than branded alternatives. The JAK network is spread across all States and union territories, with over 44% of the shops run by women.
Jan Aushadhi Kendras are not isolated; they form part of a broader ecosystem of reforms, including the Ayushman Bharat scheme, Al-driven innovations. and increased budgetary allocations, all aimed at making India a global health powerhouse. The medical revolution under PM Modi addresses deep-rooted issues like high out-of-pocket expenses, which previously pushed 60 million Indians into poverty annually, under previously inept Congress regimes. With healthcare spending historically hovering around 1 per cent of GDP, the Modi government decided to ramp up investments, fostering self-reliance through. “Atmanirbhar Bharat” and integrating technology for better outcomes…….”
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